After all
adverb
Used to show that something is surprising or that is opposite of the previous belief.
Bob decided to join the party after all.
Often appears as...
- decide after all
- come after all
adverb
Used to add information that supports a previous statement.
He is clever, after all, he just solved the math problem.
Often appears as...
- clever after all
- important after all
adverb
Used at end of a phrase or sentence to mean 'in spite of considerations or expectations to the contrary'.
It appears that his work was worth it after all.
Often appears as...
- worth it after all
- possible after all
adverb
Used to show that something is surprising or that is opposite of the previous belief.
Bob decided to join the party after all.
Often appears as...
- decide after all
- come after all
adverb
Used to add information that supports a previous statement.
He is clever, after all, he just solved the math problem.
Often appears as...
- clever after all
- important after all
adverb
Used at end of a phrase or sentence to mean 'in spite of considerations or expectations to the contrary'.
It appears that his work was worth it after all.
Often appears as...
- worth it after all
- possible after all
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Expectation Shift
Use 'after all' to show a change of situation against what was believed or planned.
She took the long route, but made it on time after all.
Pro Tip 2/3Subtle Surprise
Conveys mild surprise without strong emotion. It suggests a small unexpected change.
The forecast was wrong. It's sunny after all.
Pro Tip 3/3Contrary Outcome
Use it when outcomes are contrary to what was previously understood or stated.
He said he wouldn't help, but he showed up after all.
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